Jane Poston, Chandler Jane Poston, Chandler City Council member

Edmundo Mendez, Jr./City of Chandler

OPINION

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If there’s one thing I know about Chandler, it’s that our community steps up when it matters most. And when Chandler unites around a shared purpose, we make a real impact.

That's why I invite Chandler businesses and residents to join the city of Chandler and showcase that giving spirit by donating to local food pantries, hosting food drives and contributing at city events and Chandler Fire stations.

The holiday season is a time for gratitude, family and community. There’s no better way to celebrate than by coming together to help neighbors in need, when hunger remains a challenge for working families across Chandler every day.

Together, we can ensure this holiday season shines brighter for everyone. To seek assistance or contribute, click here.

Each Chandler fire station and fire headquarters are dropoff locations for nonperishable food donations through the end of the year.

Bring your donation to the station and while you’re there, the kids can climb aboard a fire truck or take a quick tour! If our firefighters are on a call, simply leave your items by the door and they’ll ensure your gifts get to our local food banks.

Events showcase the best of our community: creativity, compassion and connection. Let’s use them as opportunities to fill our collection bins and the stomachs of those who need our help the most.

When you attend Chandler events, donate and let your presence build momentum. Food collection bins and signage for financial contributions will be available.

• Nov. 8 – Chandler Fire Department Open House from 9 a.m. to Noon at Station No. 7
• Nov. 9 – Veterans Day at 5:30 p.m. at Veterans Oasis Park
• Nov. 15 – Woofstock from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Tumbleweed Park
• Nov. 15 – Pride in Chandler from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park
• Nov. 28 – Dec 6 – Ballet Etudes: The Nutcracker, at the Chandler Center for the Arts
• Dec. 6 – Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park (financial donations only)
• Jan. 17 – Chandler Multicultural Festival at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park Stage Plaza

Local nonprofits like AZCEND, Chandler Care Center, Matthew’s Crossing, Salvation Army and United Food Bank have served our community for decades, offering essential support for Chandler families when times get tough. Every donation of money or nonperishable food is put to direct use here at home.

To best serve the needs of nonprofits and working families, consider these tips:

-Financial donations go further with trusted nonprofits like AZCEND, Chandler Care Center, Matthew’s Crossing, Salvation Army and United Food Bank. Monetary gifts give food pantries flexibility to purchase exactly what’s needed in bulk and at prices much lower than consumers.

-Click here to see lists of food items needed most. This ensures your donation fills a real gap. Ensure donated items are within the shelf life and in good condition to help families in meaningful ways now and throughout the year.

The fight against hunger is a community effort, and in Chandler, community is what we do best. Your participation through a financial or food donation helps sustain the well-being of our city and the people who make it thrive.

Let’s demonstrate how Chandler’s spirit of service shines brighter when we work together.

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